Class Theme- Week 5 July 2015- Inspiration from the Mat

Inspiration this week comes via Meditations from the Mat by Rolf Gates, day 199 to be precise!  He shares thoughts day by day for a year in this gem of a book, arranged around the eight limbs of yoga.  On this day, he observes the differences between a young, “fit”, new student vs. a much older but seasoned practitioner.  The latter has developed efficiency and economy of movement- work is directed only where it is needed, no energy diverted into sustaining the ego, nor fighting one’s physicality (and I would add, gravity).  Just surrender into the flow of life, to feel the connection.  Trust, breathe, smile.

As more and more hours on my mat pile up, I begin to feel and know some of those qualities in my own practice at certain times.  For me they still come and go, as does my dedication to my own personal practice.  But like a beacon, they beckon me to stay on the path and persevere, just to experience the joy if it- and to carry that with me off the mat.  This I wish for you too.